It is an honor to address you for the first time as President of the Denver Bar Association. I begin by expressing my profound gratitude to Dr. Annie Martínez for their inspiring and tireless leadership. Their exemplary service reminds us that this role transcends any individual—it embodies our collective commitment to continuing the DBA’s legacy of service, connection, and unwavering dedication to advancing equity within the legal profession.

At its foundation, the DBA represents community and service. I am deeply honored to lead in service to both our profession and the broader community we serve. My years of Bar involvement have been among the most fulfilling of my career, and I am energized to continue this work in my new capacity, dedicating myself wholly to the DBA’s mission.

Throughout my association with this organization, I have experienced a richness of opportunity that should be accessible to every DBA member. Making this vision a reality is my primary goal. While the DBA serves as our professional home, I believe it must also become a personal sanctuary—a place where every Denver attorney feels genuinely welcomed and valued.

This is the spirit I aim to cultivate during my presidency. I envision the Denver Bar Association as a true home for every lawyer in our city—whether you’ve practiced for five decades or recently passed the bar, whether you come from privilege or have overcome significant barriers to enter our profession. To anyone who has ever questioned their place in our legal community: you belong here, and you are valued.

This year, my focus centers on building a more connected and inclusive legal community in Denver. When we support our members not only in their professional endeavors but also in their personal growth, our collective impact on the greater community becomes limitless. We will create enhanced opportunities for mentorship and peer networking, expand pathways to leadership, continue dismantling barriers to collaboration, and welcome our key stakeholders into meaningful dialogue and partnership. The DBA proudly stands as an association where diverse voices and experiences are not merely heard, but empowered to lead.

I firmly believe that our profession’s health extends far beyond courtroom victories—it is reflected in how we treat one another, support our colleagues, and serve our community. By leading with civility, cooperation, and genuine connection, we can revitalize our collective energy and reaffirm the values that make our profession a force for positive change. It is particularly fitting that I address you during National Civility Month, at a time when human decency, kindness, and empathy appear increasingly rare. Let us unite and lead by example—we are all navigating this journey together.

Our responsibility extends well beyond our membership. As legal professionals, we bear the duty to combat oppression and dismantle the systemic and institutional inequities that persist within our profession and justice system. Our newly established Public Policy Committee is working diligently to ensure our legal system serves all people with fairness and dignity, while our Board of Trustees is developing innovative public-facing community initiatives. In partnership with our Bar colleagues, we will continue strengthening our Access to Justice efforts, bringing renewed energy and focus to our flagship Metro Volunteer Lawyers program.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve you and alongside you. Together, let us transform the DBA into a true home for Denver’s legal community.

With appreciation and unwavering resolve, 
Danaé D. Kinnett 
President, Denver Bar Association

P.S. We had an amazing summer! Check out the recap of our events and upcoming opportunities in this month’s Your DBA!